Producers in Oldham County and across Kentucky often need specific services and certifications to enable them to market their farm products.  Despite difficulties created by the pandemic, a combination of individual and small group training and service was offered to meet these needs.

Twenty-one producers completed certifications and had access to services that enabled them to sell their farm products.  The Oldham County Agriculture Extension Agent provided training, with assistance from other organizations noted below.

• Four producers completed Produce Best Practices Training, a requirement of participation in many farmers markets.  The Kentucky Department of Agriculture tracks this training and provides diplomas to participants.
• Six producers obtained market scale inspection and certification.  This service was hosted at the Extension Office and provided by a Kentucky Department of Agriculture inspector.  
• One producer obtained recertification for Home Based Microprocessing.  This certification allows producers to use produce they’ve grown to process value-added products to sell at farmers markets.  
• Six producers completed Beef Quality & Care Assurance Certification in person, and four producers completed the certification online.  Beef Quality & Care Assurance Certification is required in order to sell calves in Certified Pre-Conditioned for Health sales and other beef marketing programs.  This certification is tracked by the Kentucky Beef Network.

These opportunities are offered each year at Extension Offices in Kentucky, and demand is anticipated to increase in 2021-2022 as more people participate in public events.